Press Release

Volksmarching Comes To Bryan/College Station

College Station, TX - Volksmarching is not something you would normally associate with a history museum but on November 23 the George Bush Presidential Library and Museum will host its first annual "Anniversary Volksmarch." The museum will host two such events each year. One will be in the fall around the museum's anniversary and the second in the spring. Each Volkswalking trail begins and ends at the museum. After the kick-off event, a 5K and 10K walking trail will be available year round. There is a nominal fee for each Volksmarcher and patches and pins are awarded upon completion.

The local chapter of Volkswalkers is aptly named "Bushwalkers." The group was organized by museum docent, Glenda Baker. The group is open to anyone no matter what their level of fitness. "We just want people to come out and have a good time" commented Baker. "Both of our trails are wheelchair and stroller compatible" Baker added. "So grab the kids and come on out. It is going to be a great family event."

Many people may wonder what is Volkswalking? "A sport for the people." That is the literal translation of volkssporting. Specifically, a volkssporting event is an organized, noncompetitive walk, bike, swim or a cross-country ski designed to appeal to everyone. The majority of volkssporting events are organized walks. Volkswalks take place on marked trails with a measured distance of either five or ten kilometers (3.1 or 6.2 miles). This allows participants to exercise at their own pace. Two kinds of volkswalks are available: regular walking events, those which occur on weekends with published start and finish times, and year-round/seasonal events, which are open any day or, in the case of seasonal events, opened during a limited time frame due to weather conditions. Not only is volkswalking good for the body and mind, but also for sociability and education. Currently there are approximately 425 volkssporting clubs in the United States. Each club offers a different schedule and frequency of events. It is safe, easy and entertaining to exercise with a walking group. Group commitments and walking goals keep one's motivation high and help ensure one maintains a regular exercise program. Thousands of volkssporting events are organized every year in historical and natural areas; so enjoy the scenery with or without a group.

The event will be held November 23, 2002 rain or shine. Walkers can begin anytime between 8:30 a.m. and 12:00 p.m. Food and refreshments will be available for purchase from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Pre-registration is available until November 15, 2002.

For more information on Volksmarching or to join the Bushwalkers contact Brian Blake at 979-260-9552 ext. 290 or visit the Volkswalking information table at the museum during the November 6, 2002 Anniversary Celebration.